Motorola WX288 The Comprehensive Guide to Specs Pricing and Features

Overview of the Motorola WX288

The Motorola WX288 was introduced in December 2009 and released in 2010, targeting budget-conscious consumers who needed a simple, straightforward mobile phone. It features basic functionalities that cater to users who demand essential communication tools without the complexity and cost of smartphones. As a discontinued model, it remains a part of the legacy feature phones by Motorola, which holds a historical significance in the evolution of mobile technology.

Design and Build

The Motorola WX288 is compact, with dimensions of 107 x 46 x 12.2 mm and a weight of just 66 grams. Its lightweight nature makes it highly portable, fitting comfortably in the palm or pocket. The phone features a black color scheme, which was quite common for devices of that era, aiming for simplicity and elegance. It supports a Mini-SIM card, reflecting the standard of the time before the advent of micro and nano SIM cards.

Display

It comes with a CSTN display capable of displaying 65K colors, which was the norm for budget phones in that period. The screen measures 1.8 inches with a resolution of 128 x 160 pixels, providing a pixel density of about 114 ppi. Although not designed for multimedia consumption or high-resolution graphics, it serves well for basic UI navigation, texting, and calls.

Network and Connectivity

Supporting GSM technology, the Motorola WX288 operates on 2G bands, specifically GSM 900 and 1800. It features GPRS Class 10 for data connectivity, which is quite limited by today's standards but adequate for simple text-based web browsing or MMS messages. Notably absent are EDGE, WLAN, and positioning features, which further emphasizes its intended role as a basic communication device.

Camera

Equipped with a VGA camera, the Motorola WX288 provides a 0.3 MP resolution for capturing still images. The lack of video recording functionality highlights the phone's focus on simplicity. While the camera quality is modest, it is capable of taking basic photos for casual sharing or reference.

Audio and Sound

Despite its budget nature, the WX288 includes a loudspeaker, enhancing its utility as a tool for hands-free calls or listening to FM radio broadcasts with RDS support. However, it does not come with a 3.5mm jack, which limits options for private listening with earphones or headphones.

Communication Features

The Motorola WX288 offers basic communication features, including SMS and MMS messaging. The WAP 2.0/xHTML browser is included for light web browsing. Additionally, the phone supports Java MIDP 2.0, allowing users to run basic Java applications and games, adding some level of entertainment and functionality beyond core communication tasks.

Battery Life

One of the standout features of the WX288 is its impressive battery life, thanks to the removable Li-Ion 650 mAh battery. It offers up to 715 hours of standby time and up to 7 hours of talk time, making it highly suitable for users in regions or situations where charging options might be limited. The emphasis on battery longevity is typical of feature phones, which are often chosen for their reliability during extended periods without recharging.

Storage and Memory

True to its feature phone nature, the Motorola WX288 does not include expandable storage options or a card slot. However, it comes with a phonebook capacity capable of storing 800 entries, sufficient for users who require a phone primarily for personal or business contacts. The call records feature allows tracking of the last 10 dialed, received, and missed calls, providing a straightforward call management experience.

Pricing and Market Position

Initially, the WX288 was priced at about 60 EUR, positioning it firmly in the budget market. Its affordability, combined with essential features, made it an attractive choice for consumers seeking a reliable basic phone without additional costs associated with smartphones.

Conclusion

The Motorola WX288 represents a category of mobile devices that prioritizes fundamental communication functions over advanced technological features. For users who need a dependable phone for calls, SMS, and basic multimedia, the WX288 offers an efficient and economical solution. Although it lacks the features of modern smartphones, its simplicity and practicality make it a noteworthy option for specific demography and use-cases.